Petroleum County is the smallest county in Montana in terms of population, with less than 500 people. But they have an extremely active group called ACES (Agricultural Community Enhancement and Sustainability) that is working hard to make Winnett a place where people want to stay and thrive. My guests this month are both younger ranchers who grew up in Winnett, left, and came back to their family ranches.
Brenda Brady was born and raised in Winnett, on her family's ranch north of town. She attended the University of Montana where she earned a BS in Health and Human Performance-Athletic Training and a MS in Exercise Science. After working for 15 years as a Certified Athletic Trainer, she transitioned back to the family ranch and Winnett community. She ranches full time, but still enjoys a little athletic training work with Billings Clinic covering high school athletics.
Jay King was raised on the family cattle ranch near Winnet. He graduated Winnett High School in 2009 then graduated Helena College with an AAS in welding in 2014. Jay returned full time to the ranch in 2015 and currently serves on the Petroleum County Planning Board and Petroleum County Conservation District.